Skillet Beef Chili

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Hearty, flavorful, and simple to make, this easy skillet beef chili is perfect for busy weeknights or prepping ahead for the week.

Prep Time5

Cook Time20

Course: Dinner, Main Dish

Cuisine: American

Servings: people

Calories: 509kcal

Author: Catherine McCord

Equipment

cast iron skillet

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound ground beef
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon chili powder (add another teaspoon if you want more heat!)
1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
2 teaspoons cumin
15 ounce can kidney or black beans, drained and rinsed
15 ounce can chopped tomatoes (use fire roasted for deeper flavor)
1 lime
1/2 pound McCain Smiles
Toppings: sour cream, grated mozzarella, cheddar and/or Mexican blend cheese, diced tomatoes, diced onion

Instructions

Heat the oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and saute for 4-5 minutes or until they begin to soften.
Add the garlic and saute for 1 minute.
Add the ground beef, salt, chili powder, smoked paprika and cumin and then saute for 5 minutes or until the beef is cooked through.
Add the beans, tomatoes, and lime juice and then simmer for an additional 3 minutes to reduce slightly and heat through.
While the chili is cooking, place the Smiles in an air fryer basket or baking sheet in the oven and cook according to package directions.
Place the Smiles on top of chili and serve with toppings on the side.

Notes

Adjust the thickness: Simmer uncovered for a heartier chili, or add a splash of broth if you like it looser.
Make extra: Chili tastes even better the next day, so double the batch and freeze some for later. You may have to use a larger pot to make a double batch.
Set up a chili bar: Put out toppings and let everyone customize their own bowl! It makes dinner more fun and interactive for kids.
Storage: Allow chili to cool and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove until heated through. Add fresh Smiles on top before serving.
Freezing: Store cooled chili in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Skip the Smiles until serving day so they stay crispy.

Nutrition

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